A VINTAGE car which was found engulfed in flames was set alight deliberately, police believe.

Firefighters could not rescue the cherished MG Magnette when they discovered it in Ashampstead Road, Bradfield, on Wednesday night.

It was understood the car was stolen from a property in Wantage, Oxon, and driven through Reading before being set alight.

A post on Facebook reads: "My Grandfather's Cream/BRG MG Magnette 16/50 Farina BUC 673C was stolen in Wantage, Oxfordshire on February 20 night time.

"(It was) sited crossing Caversham Bridge in Reading, now Bradfield West Berks by fire service at 3am."

Officers probing the incident revealed the car was most likely set alight deliberately. A hunt is underway for the suspected arsonist.

A police spokesman said: "Thames Valley Police officers were called by the fire service at about 10.25pm Wednesday night following reports of a car fire in Ashampstead Road, Bradfield.

"It is believed that arson could have been the cause of the fire. An investigation into the incident is taking place."

Anyone who saw the car should contact the force on 101.